[Guided punctures in the treatment of hepatic and perihepatic abscesses under ultrasonic control]

The authors discuss the possibilities of ultrasonic tomography and subsequent performance of purposeful punctures for establishing the precise diagnosis of hepatic and perihepatic abscesses. In most cases the method helps in revealing the cavities measuring no more than 1.5-2.0 cm. The indications are determined, as well as the techniques of topical treatment with the use of single and multiple punctures and prolonged percutaneous drainage. Seventy-three patients (32 with hepatic and 41 with perihepatic abscesses) underwent clinical examination. Topical therapy was applied in 21 patients with discovered hepatic abscesses, 17 of them recovered. Operations were avoided in 25 in a group of 34 patients with perihepatic abscesses (in 7 the abscesses were not identified). The success of this treatment is determined by exact diagnosis and precise manipulations.